How to Visit

For general booking inquiries download the booking procedures document or contact the Bookings Secretary: Mark Newell on bookings@isleofmaybirdobs.org or call him on 07909 707971

RIB Osprey carrying Observatory visitors

The observatory can accommodate up to 6 visitors usually staying for a week, arriving and departing on a Saturday, though individual arrangements can be made where bookings and boat arrangements allow. The observatory is open from mid-late March through to early November. Those staying are expected to carry out the observatory duties during their stay including keeping up a daily bird and migration log and recording other wildlife sightings. Bookings for any calendar year are taken by the bookings secretary from November onward (for members of the Isle of May bird Observatory Trusts and from 1st Dec for non-members) booking procedures and further information are available here:

All prospective visitors are encouraged to contact the Bookings Secretary for up to date news on availability and to receive a booking form. The current weekly charge (including the boat) is £140. Transport to the island is provided by the RIB ‘Osprey’ or the “May Princess” subject to weather, tide and other logistics, these boats also run regular day trips to the island from Anstruther. For further information, check out their websites: www.isleofmayboattrips.co.ukwww.isleofmayferry.com

Heading to the Isle from Anstruther

Additional information on visiting the island and its status as a National Nature Reserve can be accessed through the SNH website.